Introduction

beginner

Trades 101: The Field Guide to a Career That Doesn't Suck

Free intro course

This comprehensive free course is your gateway to understanding the skilled trades. Packed with humor, real-world insights, and practical advice, it covers why trades are thriving, which paths suit you best, and how to get started without the usual BS.

4 hours4 modules · 8 lessonsSelf-Paced

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What You'll Learn

Understand which trade paths match your personality and goals

Know realistic salary expectations and career progression

Have a concrete action plan for breaking into the trades

Speak basic trade lingo without sounding like a tourist

Understand the current job market and opportunities

Compare the Big 6 trade industries side by side

Identify the certifications and training you need

Build a 30/60/90 day plan for your trade career launch

Know what Day 1 on a job site actually looks like

Avoid the most common rookie mistakes that get people fired

Who This Course Is For

High school grads exploring career options
Career changers curious about the trades
Anyone who wants to understand trade culture before day one
Parents or counselors researching trade careers

🎮 Try Before You Buy: Free Interactive Previews

Explore these free interactive modules to get a taste of what you'll learn in this course.

7 min

Chapter 1: Why the Trades, Why Now?

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20 min

The Trade Personality Test

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20 min

A Day in the Life

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Course Curriculum

4 modules • 8 lessons • 4 hours total

Getting Started

55 minutes

Why the Trades, Why Now?25 minutes

The Big 6 + Future Paths30 minutes

Finding Your Fit

45 minutes

Lifestyle & Fit20 minutes

The Trade Personality Test20 minutes

Real Life Stories

50 minutes

A Day in the Life25 minutes

Money Talk: Real Salaries & Career Ladders25 minutes

Getting Started Right

45 minutes

Breaking In: Landing Your First JobAbout 10 minutes

Your Next Steps Action Plan15 minutes

Requirements

Just curiosity about skilled trades
Willingness to consider getting your hands dirty
Open mind about career alternatives

How This Course Was Built

This course was developed by TalkTheTrade using industry research, government data, and input from working tradespeople.

Free

No credit card required

This course includes:

Humor-packed content that doesn't bore you to death

Real salary data and career progression paths

Trade personality matching quiz

Industry slang and insider knowledge

No-BS advice from actual tradespeople

Actionable next steps and job hunting tips

4 hours

Duration

Lessons

Certificate

Included

Resources

Downloadable

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